One of the best things about living in a huge urban city is
all the food options. I don’t know how my fellow JETs living in the middle of
nowhere survive on just Japanese food. I love Japanese food, but some variety
is nice. In this post I will recommend some of my favorite places in Osaka that
I often go to (or have been to once, but was really impressed). I decided to
stick only to Osaka even though I’ve been to some really cool places around the
country simply because it’d be too much work, and this post would be too long! There
are still so many places I don’t know about or want to try, so maybe I will add
to this post as time goes on.
Let’s start off with bars.
1)
Balabushka (Shinsaibashi)
This is my favorite bar in Osaka for
several reasons. First, the staff is great! They are all my friends and we even
hang out outside of work. Second, it is the biggest bar I’ve been to in Japan.
It’s huge and you can play pool and darts for free. Drinks are reasonably
priced (there’s a good happy hour), and there are some tasty food options (the
portions are big) for a good price as well. Third, it’s basically like my second
home. My friends and I are always there every weekend. It’s open until 5 am, so
after clubbing, we often rest there until first train. It’s right in American
Village, so you can get to anywhere you want to go easily before or after
going. The customers are always a mix of foreigners and Japanese.
2)
Captain Kangaroo (Kitashinchi)
This bar is a lot like Balabushka in many
ways minus the pool and darts. It’s a pretty decent sized bar. I LOVE the staff
here as well. They have a great looking food menu although I’ve never eaten
here except trying some of my friends’ food. They serve a lot of burgers. The
drinks are also reasonably priced, especially for being in Kitashinchi which is
a high class drinking district. It’s also a foreigner’s bar. I think even more
foreigners go here than Balabushka. Mostly I really like the atmosphere of the
place. It kind of has a badass feel too it.
3)
Cinquecento (Shinsaibashi/Namba)
This is straight up a martini bar. It’s
great because everything on the menu is 500 yen (about $5). They have a ton of
different martinis which are all really easy to drink. I always end up getting
drunker here than I think I will. The bar is kind of small, but if you are
going with just a couple friends, it’s perfect. They have some small food items
on menu also for 500 yen which are good. The customers here are often foreign
as well. I go to a lot of foreigner bars…what can I say?
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4)
HUB (everywhere)
The HUB is a British Pub chain. It’s very
popular and has many branches in Japan. I’ve been to at least five different
branches in Osaka (Tennoji, Namba, Shinsaibashi, Umeda, and Kyobashi). The
drinks can be a bit on the expensive side, but that’s because they have some
pretty elaborate specialty drinks. They sell simple shots and cocktails for
average prices though. Also, their happy hour is a really good deal. I like
this place for two reasons. One, they have a large and delicious food menu (I
get the bite-size fish and chips pretty much every time I go), and two, many
Japanese people who are looking to meet and interact with foreigners go here.
So, it’s easy to meet people.
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5)
White & Cigar (Shijonawate)
I’ve written about this bar so much that
you probably don’t want to hear about it anymore, but I’ll briefly describe it
again. This is a local bar right next to my train station, Shinobugaoka. It’s
quite small (maybe it fits about 20 people max). This is not the type of place
you go to party. It’s a place you go to relax and appreciate fine drinks made
by cocktail artist. Yes, it’s a tab expensive (not too bad though), but once you taste one of Miyake-san’s
cocktails, you’ll understand why. The lighting is dim, and the music is classy.
There is usually a movie playing silently on the TV. You can go and relax by
watching a movie, having a smoke and a drink, or chatting with the regulars.
All of the customers are usually Japanese. This is perhaps the place I will
miss the most if I leave Japan.
6)
Tin’s Hall (Tennoji)
This is another foreigner bar located in Tennoji.
It’s quite big and has a DELICIOUS food menu. The drinks themselves are quite
average. The happy hour is great though! One of the things it’s famous for is
serving real American Thanksgiving dinner each year for Thanksgiving. It makes
being away from home at Thanksgiving a little more bearable. Also, the DJ that
plays every Friday went to the same University as me, so we always bond over
that when I go.
7) Pacha (Kyobashi)
This place is a cool American themed bar in Kyobashi. Standard food and drinks. There are often events that draw a lot of people, and it gets pretty packed on the weekends. Despite being American themed, it's usually full of Japanese people only, but most of them are really down to chat with you. The staff is friendly, too! The thing that draws me to this place the most is the thumping music. They know I love EDM, so they often blare it over the sound system for me when I come in.
8) Wisteria (Kyobashi)
I save this place for special occasions. It's quite pricey but extremely classy. Perfect for a date! The bar master is a sherry specialist, but I come for his out of the world Moscow mules. I love this bar.
9) Hi Five (Kyobashi)
Super chill bar to zone out in. Technically it's a music bar. I've seen the owner play guitar once here, but I hear there are various music events every month. The strange music studio / classroom vibe gives your eyes entertainment.
10) 7 Days (Kyobashi)
This is a live house and bar. There are live shows all the time on the second floor, but I always chill at the bar on the main floor. It's a little more expensive here than the average place, but then again the drinks are better than average. This place is pretty hip and draws an energetic crowd. Often the owner will pull a tequila bottle out for no reason and start pouring free shots!
*no picture
11) Hitohito (Shijonawate)
A local bar in my town that is everything you need and want out of a bar. Fun bartender who is quite skilled with his cooking, a variety of drinks and specials, comfortable atmosphere, and a variety of customers. I get the homemade smoked cheese every time. This place is not expensive at all which is great!
12) Soul Kitchen (Shijonawate)
Another local dining bar. This place is the king of homemade food and drinks. Everything is created and well thought out by the owner. I try something different off the menu every time, and I am never disappointed. Some of my favorites are the hot wine, sangria, cheese plate, walut & cream penne, and the multiple cheese pizza/ The atmosphere is also a key point to the place. Super relaxing, almost whimsical with the glass trinkets. Also a good place for a date.
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| L&L (Shinsaibashi) |
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| Shotbar DEN (Kyobashi) |
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| The Old Bridge (Tsuruhashi) |
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| Bacchus (Tamatsukuri) |
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| Chelsea (Suminodo) |
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| Dining Bar Fusa (Hanaten) |
Be Glad (Kyobashi)
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| Farplane (Shinsaibashi) |
Bar Mar (various locations)
*no picture
Next I will introduce some izakaya (Japanese style pubs).
1) Kyushu Danji (Shinsaibashi)
1) Kyushu Danji (Shinsaibashi)
“Kyushu” is always our izakaya of choice for parties. Probably because they have an area
where you can fit many people. Honestly, there’s nothing particularly special
about this place. It’s just good food, good drinks (nomihoudai), a good atmosphere, and always good times! I believe
there are a few other locations as well.
2) Torikizoku (everywhere)
There are Torikizokus everywhere! Everyone
knows and likes Toriki (for short). It’s cheap, has many kinds of yakitori (chicken on skewers), and huge
beers if that’s your thing. Some branches don’t have nomihoudai though, so you have to be careful.
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3) Shinsekai Janjan (Shinsaibashi)
This is Kyushu Danji’s sister branch
apparently. They are right across the street from each other. I really like
this izakaya’s kushikatsu assortment platters. We usually head to this izakaya when Kyushu Danji is full.
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4) Yebisu (Tennoji/Shinsekai)
So I don’t usually think of this place as
an izakaya even though it is.
Probably because I only go there for the kushikatsu.
This place is in the area where kushikatsu
originated, and in my opinion, it has the best kushikatsu in Osaka. The atmosphere is very laid back. You can get
all sorts of food besides kushikatsu
(there’s a grill on your table so you can cook okonomiyaki and yakisoba).
For me, several orders of kushikatsu,
some edamame to cut the grease, and a
cold chu-hai or umeshu is the perfect combination. Kushikatsu is definitely my favorite Japanese food, and I without a
doubt bring anyone who visits me to this place!
5) Shirokiya (everywhere)
Shirokiyas are everywhere. It is a high
scale izakaya but still reasonable. I
enjoy the food every time I go here. Their drink menu is quite elaborate too. I
would recommend this place when you are sick of going to Torikizoku and want a
little more variety.
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6) 志なのすけ(海鮮居酒屋)
(Kyobashi) *No Picture.
This is a nice izakaya for a date. It’s quiet enough, has a nice atmosphere, and
specializes in seafood and sushi. They also have honey flavored umeshu! Also, it’s a good option if you
aren’t Shinsaibashi/Namba since it’s in Kyobashi.
**NEW RECOMMENDATIONS: Budouya (Umeda), Anbay (Shijonawate), Sakana Izakaya (Kyobashi), 北海道金丸農園 (Shin-Fukushima)
**NEW RECOMMENDATIONS: Budouya (Umeda), Anbay (Shijonawate), Sakana Izakaya (Kyobashi), 北海道金丸農園 (Shin-Fukushima)
Lastly, I will tell you about my favorite restaurants!
1)
El Pancho (Shinsaibashi)
Before moving to Japan, I was under the
impression that there were literally no Mexican restaurants in Japan. Luckily,
I moved to Osaka and soon realized that there are several! El Pancho is my
favorite Mexican restaurant. They have all the staples: nachos, tacos,
enchiladas, burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, and more! The taste is pretty
authentic, and the atmosphere is awesome! Sometimes they have live music. The
place is kind of small though, so be careful if you are going with a big group
or on a weekend. It might be full.
2)
El Zocalo Burrito (Shinsaibashi)
This place is not the same as Chipotle, but
it’s the closest thing I’ve found. You can get very large burritos here for a
good price. They have other food items, but if you go here, you should
definitely get a burrito set! They also have a good selection of import beers.
My only warning is that it takes them a little while to get your food out to
you. The wait is worth it though.
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3)
Uncle Steven’s (Shinsaibashi)
This is the last Mexican restaurant I go to
regularly. I know there are a few other Mexican restaurants in Osaka, but I
haven’t gotten around to trying them yet. So anyway, this place is a bit
pricier, but the quality of food is better. I love their margaritas here! I’m
not sure if I’d call this place Mexican or Spanish or something in between
because in addition to burritos and enchiladas, they have a lot of seafood
dishes that I don’t recognize.
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4)
Kushiya Monogatari (Namba)
This is my second favorite kushikatsu place. Yebisu wins for taste,
but Kushiya Monogatari wins because it’s all you can eat and fun! Each table had
its own deep fryer. You go up to the buffet, take as many skewers as you want,
and then you cook it at your table. There are other things besides kushikatsu too like salad, desserts,
rice, etc. The restaurant itself is quite nice, and it’s inside of Namba Parks
shopping center.
5)
Kua’Aina (Namba/Rinku Town)
This restaurant is also inside Namba Parks
as well as a branch in the Rinku Town outlet mall. It’s a Hawaian burger joint.
The restaurant might not be anything too spectacular, but it is a legit taste
of home. In addition to burgers, they offer up fries, onion rings, chicken
tenders, sandwiches and more. It a great place to go when you want American
food without a Japanese spin.
6)
Jinen (Shinsaibashi)
This is one of the few high end sushi
restaurants I’ve been too. The sushi here is top of the line and absolutely
delicious! The fish is thick and flavorful unlike the thin slices they give you
a kaitenzushi. The atmosphere is also
nice. It comes with a price tag. I suggest this place if you have money to burn
and are trying to impress.
7)
Nine (Kyobashi)
This is a chic bar/restaurant that
specializes in vegetable cuisine, but is not limited to only vegetables. This
is one place I know of that is open until first train in Kyobashi. They have a
nice selection of wine and original drinks. I definitely recommend this place
if you are in Kyobashi and looking for something a bit trendy.
8)
Onyasai 温野菜 (everywhere)
This is a shabu-shabu chain. As someone who doesn’t eat much meat, I like
this place because they offer many vegetarian options. They have an all you can
eat vegetable course that includes other things like noodles and tofu as well.
It’s nice to be able to experience shabu-shabu
without worrying about having to eat meat.
9)
Daifuku (Shijonawate)
Daifuku is a fancy yakiniku restaurant in my town. They have all you can eat and drink
options. It’s not that terribly expensive either. The place is polished looking
and open. I see a lot of families come here.
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10)
Slices (Shinsaibashi)
This is probably the closest I’ve found to
American tasting pizza besides pizza by the slice at Costco. This place is
actually a Canadian style restaurant, and in addition to pizza (which comes in
decent sizes), they have fantastic variety of poutine (a Canadian dish), and
milkshakes to die for. The staff can speak English which is comforting, too.
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11)
Bistro New Orleans (Shinsaibashi)
This place is a real treat. As the name
suggests, they offer authentic Louisiana dishes. So much flavor! I would have
to say that is definitely one of a kind in Japan. C.C., the owner, will come
sit and drink with you while you eat and become your friend. He is interested
in your life story and sharing his own. He will tell you everything you need to
know about Cajun cuisine. This place is definitely a safe haven for expats in
Japan.
12)
Partyland (Namba/Shinsaibashi)
This place is reminiscent of the frozen
yogurt chains you come across in the U.S. where it’s self-serve and you pay by
weight. You can choose from several flavors of frozen yogurt and a buffet full
of toppings such as fresh fruit and candy.
13)
Espace (Umeda)
If you are looking for somewhere romantic
and sophisticated to take your date, I recommend this restaurant. They serve
actual gourmet cheese fondue. The ingredients in the dishes here are the
finest. The kitchen is open, so you can see them prepare your food. The
restaurant is kind of secluded and just a couple minute walk from Shin-Fukushima
station. You can find it by the little twinkling lights outside. The restaurant
is dimly lit and has a very cozy feel to it. Going with a friend is nice too!
14)
韓一館 (Tsuruhashi)
If you are from Osaka, then you know that
Tsuruhashi is Osaka’s Korean Town, and it’s chalk full of Korean restaurants.
I’m sure you can find many equally delicious Korean restaurants in this area,
but this is the one I go to. It’s great! They have a women’s course meal where
you get so much food, it’d ridiculous…and delicious! The makkori (excuse my Japanese Romanization) comes in large basins
like it does in actual South Korea. The walls are decorated with dreamy Korean
idols, and the atmosphere was really relaxed. The kaisen-miso-chige is sooo good! Most of the people here come to
drink merrily and enjoy spicy food. Yaki-niku
is available here as well.
15)
Luce Santlucia (Tennoji/Kyoto/Nara)
So I’ve actually only been to the Kyoto and
Nara branches which is a little hypocritical, but I’m sure the Osaka one is
just as good. When you walk into this restaurant, you instantly recall Olive
Garden in the U.S. The décor is very similar. It also is an Italian food joint.
They serve Italian style pizzas, a variety of pastas, and delicious baguettes
with different flavored spreads. There is nothing bad to say about this place.
16)
Toki Sushi (Namba)
This place serves the most delicious sushi
I’ve ever eaten. It is incredibly genuine. They aren’t trying to impress with
the atmosphere because they know how good their sushi is. This place is famous
for the fish and sushi chefs who obviously have had years of training. The
place is small, so the waiting line extends onto the street. I literally wanted
to cry when I took that first bite of hot eel, my favorite sushi. This place
even made me like sea urchin! The ingredients are so fresh.
Again, here are some other good restaurants
I’ve been too, but either they don’t stand out too much or I’ve only been to
once. I’ve included short blurbs to give you an idea of what kind of places
they are.
·
Kazokutei 家族亭 (Koyobashi – Tradtional Japanese teishoku…things like udon, tempura, soup, rice, etc.)
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Eggs & Things (Shinsaibashi – Hawaiian pancakes
and breakfast food. Famous for pancakes with towers of whipped cream, but I
come for the eggs benedict.)
·
Ippudou (Namba – Serves high quality/gourmet
ramen. The chain is famous abroad). *No picture.
·
Ichiaki (Namba – Traditional Osaka okonomiyaki.)
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·
UK Cafe (Amagasaki-shi, Hyogo-ken…I know this technically
isn’t Osaka, but it’s like right near the border, so I included it. UK stands
for University of Kentucky. They have American sodas and huge food portions!)
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·
Willer Express Café (Umeda – Nice little
restaurant with cheap fondue, nice pastas, drinks, and salads.)
**NEW RECOMMENDATIONS: Kushiya Doteyaki (Kyobashi), Manee Thai (Kyobashi), Maguro Ittetsu (Kyobashi), Saizeriya (everywhere), Hooters (Honmachi), アレグロ (Tenma)
I want to add one more little random note.
If you are traveling in Osaka, or Japan in general, these are a few things you
should eat to really experience life in Japan. They aren’t specific
restaurants, but places in general that you can find anywhere. There food is authentic
and delicious!
·
Kaiten-sushi
(Sushi on rotating conveyor belts. Cheap
and delicious!)
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·
Ramen
chains (I particularly like the chain called Kamakura. Also super cheap and
super legit.)
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·
Takoyaki
stands (You can find them on any street corner in Osaka. This is the only way
to truly eat takoyaki, as street
food.)
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·
Festival/street food (If you are lucky enough to
come across a festival in Japan, then don’t waste any time trying a sample from
every little food tent! Yaki-soba at
a festival will always be better than homemade or at an izakaya in my opinion.)
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**The bar portion of this blog post has been updated on 8/1/2016. The food sections are old, but I recommended some new places at the end of each section.
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